Letters to the Editor I have a another perspective to Jann Snyder re: Coach training. There are a number of components to both the topic and her letter. The first is what might be broadly termed the coaching process skill sets. For example, of communication, building rapport, listening, inquiry, dialogue, feedback, recognising conflict styles etc; the understanding of adult learning principles, change, problem solving skill processes…all fundamentals that underpin effective coaching. Then, there are context specific skills that matter. Take the example of coaching a dysfunctial executive team. Provided the person could work in a business environment,I can't see the problem if the coach is also a psychologist in this context. It might be that the background as a psychologist has equipped the individual to be a more effective coach particularly with an understanding of group dynamics. On the other hand, the psychologist is unlikely to coach the team on business strategy and tactics. We all come to coaching from some where… Life/work expereince, skills and knowledge. Credibility to coach often emerges from one's prior work/life experience, successes and wisdom and then transitions to coaching. The skills you choose to learn as a coach are therefore multi-faceted. You may go to one school to learn the finer nuances of communication skills, another for spirituality, another for deeper values training, etc. depending on what type of coaching you specialise in. I see Martin Seligman's – Authentic Happiness Coaching Program is an example of niche training. One size doesn't fit all, and some coaches are going to come to coaching with MBA's and Ph.D's and some won't. What matters is that the coaches choose an area of coaching where they have relevent skills knowledge that compliment their coach training. Most importantly they have the awareness and ability to know what they can and can't do. As for Marshal Goldsmith…for my book, he's a good example for the profession. Regards Liz Barrett embarrett.consulting@bigpond.com.au |